Crochet ponytail hat pattern for beginners (3 sizes)
Want a warm hat that actually works with your hair up? This free crochet ponytail hat pattern is easy to follow and features a cozy ribbed brim plus a built-in opening for your ponytail or messy bun. It’s a practical cold-weather hat that keeps you comfortable without squishing your hair.
Designed in three sizes—toddler, child, and adult—this crochet ponytail hat is worked from the top down in the round using simple stitches. Scroll down for the full free pattern, a size chart, and tips for getting the best fit.
Quick answer
This crochet ponytail hat pattern is worked from the top down in the round using worsted weight yarn (#4) and an I-9 (5.5 mm) hook. You’ll start by chaining to create the ponytail opening, crochet the hat in simple rounds, then add a stretchy ribbed brim for a snug, comfy fit. Sizes included: toddler, child, and adult.
Why you’ll love this pattern
- Ponytail-friendly opening — keeps your hair up without pressure or bulk
- Beginner-friendly — simple stitches and repeatable rounds
- Ribbed brim — stretchy fit that stays put
- Three sizes included — toddler, child, and adult
- Quick make — a practical hat you’ll want to crochet more than once
Who this pattern is best for
This hat is great for anyone who wears their hair up in a ponytail or bun and wants a warm, practical winter hat that doesn’t flatten their style. It’s also a nice choice for beginners who want an easy crochet hat pattern that works up fast and fits well.
How this crochet hat is made
This crochet ponytail hat pattern is worked from the top down in the round. You’ll begin by chaining to form the ponytail opening, then crochet rounds to shape the hat. After the hat reaches the correct height for your size, you’ll add a ribbed brim using single crochet worked in the back loop only.
Crochet ponytail hat pattern details
Before you start, here’s everything you need to know—materials, gauge, sizing, and a few quick notes to help your crochet ponytail hat fit just right.
Skill level
Beginner — This crochet hat pattern uses basic stitches in basic form and in simple repeats in rounds.
Materials needed
- Crochet hook size — I-9 (5.5 mm)
- Yarn — worsted weight yarn (#4)
- Yarn needle — for weaving in ends
- Scissors — to fasten off your yarn
- Stitch marker — optional, for tracking rounds
- Tape measure — to check fit
Finished size
This crochet ponytail hat pattern includes three sizes.
- Toddler — 18–19 inches (46–48 cm) head circumference, 7 inches (18 cm) tall
- Child — 19–20 inches (48–51 cm) head circumference, 7.5 inches (19 cm) tall
- Adult — 20–23 inches (51–58 cm) head circumference, 8 inches (20 cm) tall
How to adjust the fit of this crochet hat
This hat is easy to fine-tune depending on how snug or relaxed you prefer the fit.
Adjusting the circumference
• For a snugger fit, choose the smaller end of the listed head circumference range and keep the brim slightly shorter
• For a looser fit, choose the larger end of the range and consider adding a bit of extra height before starting the brim
Most crochet hats are designed with slight negative ease, meaning the finished hat should measure a little smaller than the actual head circumference for a secure fit.
Adjusting the height
• To make the hat longer, add 1–3 rounds to the body before beginning the brim
• To make it shorter, work fewer body rounds before starting the brim
Check your gauge first
If your gauge is off, adjust your hook size before committing to the full hat. Matching gauge is the most reliable way to ensure the finished size fits as intended.
If you need help selecting the correct size range or understanding negative ease, see my Crochet Hat Sizing Guide for full charts and measurement tips.
Gauge
15 stitches and 10 rounds = 4 inches (10 cm)
✅ Too small? Try going up a hook size
✅ Too big? Try going down a hook size
Crochet abbreviations
- dc = double crochet
- sc = single crochet
- blo = back loop only
- ch/chs = chain/chains
- st/sts = stitch/stitches
- sl st = slip stitch
- rnd/rnds = round/rounds
- rem = remaining
Pattern notes
- The pattern is written in US terms.
- The hat is worked from the top down and in the round.
- Rounds 1-4 are the same for all sizes.
- Repeat the instructions between the asterisks (*) for the rest of the round.
- Join each round with a slip stitch to the first stitch made in that round.
- The beginning chain does not count as a stitch.
Quick links
Rounds 1-4
Toddler size
Child size
Adult size
Adding the ribbed brim
Finishing
FAQs
Crochet ponytail hat pattern instructions
Rounds 1-4 are the same for all sizes.
Rounds 1-4
Rnd 1: Ch 22, join in the round (this creates the ponytail opening), ch 2, 2 dc in each ch, join (44 stitches)
Rnd 2: Ch 2, *2 dc, dc in next 10 sts*, join (48 stitches)
Rnd 3: Ch 2, *2 dc, dc in next 11 sts*, join (52 stitches)
Rnd 4: Ch 2, *2 dc, dc in next 12 sts*, join (56 stitches)
Toddler size
Rnds 5–12: Ch 2, dc in each st, join (56 stitches)
Child size
Rnd 5: Ch 2, *2 dc, dc in next 13 sts*, join (60 stitches)
Rnds 6–13: Ch 2, dc in each st, join (60 stitches)
Adult size
Rnd 5: Ch 2, *2 dc, dc in next 13 sts*, join (60 stitches)
Rnd 6: Ch 2, *2 dc, dc in next 14 sts*, join (64 stitches)
Rnds 7–14: Ch 2, dc in each st, join (64 stitches)
Adding the ribbed brim
Begin the brim where you left off for the hat.
Step 1: Ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each rem ch, (6 stitches)
Step 2: Slip stitch in the next two stitches.
Step 3: Turn your work clockwise
↑ Step 4: Do not chain, sc blo in each st, (6 stitches)
↓ Step 5: Ch 1, sc blo in each st, (6 stitches)
Repeat steps 2-5 all the way around.
Finally, use a yarn needle to sew the seam where the two ends of the brim meet.
Finishing
Fasten off and then weave in the ends.
Frequently asked questions
What is a crochet ponytail hat?
A crochet ponytail hat is a hat with an opening at the top (or back) so you can wear a ponytail or bun while still keeping your head warm.
What yarn works best for this crochet ponytail hat pattern?
Worsted weight yarn (#4) is a great choice because it’s easy to work with, easy to find, and makes a warm, sturdy hat.
Do I have to use the exact hook size listed?
No. Start with an I-9 (5.5 mm), then adjust hook size if needed to match the gauge so your hat fits correctly.
How do I choose the right size?
Pick your size by head circumference first. If you’re between sizes, sizing up usually feels more comfortable (you can snug it up with the ribbed brim).
Can I make the hat longer or shorter?
Yes. Add or remove rounds in the hat body before you start the brim to adjust the height.
Why doesn’t the beginning chain count as a stitch?
Keeping the chain from counting as a stitch helps your stitch counts stay consistent and makes the seam look cleaner.
More free crochet hat patterns
Looking for more easy and stylish crochet hat projects? Explore these free crochet hat patterns for babies, kids, and adults. From cozy beanies to fun character hats and everyday essentials, these patterns are beginner-friendly, practical, and perfect for gifting or selling at craft fairs.
Whether you’re crocheting for cold weather, special occasions, or everyday wear, this collection has plenty of hat ideas to inspire your next project.
Let’s connect!
I’d love to see what you’re making! Share your finished project and follow along for more free crochet patterns and tutorials.
📌 Don’t forget to pin this pattern for later!
Happy crocheting! 🧶
— Melissa